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Friday, November 30, 2012

The Prince George’s County Police Department issued the owners of the Marygolds Family Event Center a violation notice today.

While investigating a recent assault, which occurred inside the club on November 22, 2012, it was learned that Marygolds Family Event Center was hosting a public event that involved dancing. Marygolds, located in the 8800 block of Annapolis Road in Lanham, does not have a permit to hold dance-related events. The owners are now on notice that future violations may bring criminal charges, and could result in the club being shut down.

The discovery of the dance hall violation stems from police officers investigating an assault in the early morning hours of November 22, 2012. Officers made contact with two adult male victims at an area hospital, both of whom were suffering from non-life threatening injuries. The victims alleged that soon after arriving at the club, an unknown suspect cut and stabbed them.

The investigation into the assault is ongoing, and detectives are working to identify the suspect in that case.

For more information, please contact the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Media Relations Division at (301) 772-4710. Anyone with information about the assault is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s District II Investigative Section at 301-390-2160. Callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). You may also text “PGPD plus your tip” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or got to http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/police and submit a tip online.

The Prince George’s County
Police Department is investigating a shooting in Laurel.

On November 29, 2012, at
approximately 7:55 pm, police officers responded to the 12600 block of Laurel
Bowie Road in Laurel for a shooting at the Bottom Dollar Food Store. Upon
arrival, police officers found the victim, a store security guard, suffering
from a gunshot wound. The victim was taken to a local hospital in serious
condition.

The preliminary investigation
reveals two masked gunmen entered the store and were confronted by the security
guard. During a brief struggle, one of the suspects took the victim's weapon
and the victim was shot. Both suspects fled in a light-blue SUV.

Detectives are working to
identify the suspects and the motive in this case.

Anyone with information about
this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s
Criminal Investigative Division/Robbery Unit at 301-772-4905. Callers can remain
anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). You may also
text “PGPD plus your tip” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/policeandsubmit a tip online.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

The Prince George’s County
Police Department is once again partnering with the United States Marine Corps
Reserves to host the Toys for Tots program in Prince George’s County.
Each Christmas season, the program collects new, unwrapped toys and
distributes them to families in need. Last year, the community’s
generosity helped collect and distribute some 37,000 toys, with more than 7,000
county families benefiting from the program.

Donations are already being accepted for this year’s toy drive. Please visit www.toysfortots.org to find drop-off
locations or sign up as a volunteer. Recipients must pre-register
at the same website before December 7, 2012, to attend the event and receive
toys. The collected toys will be handed out December 22, 2012.

Members of the media are
encouraged to attend. For more information, call the Prince George’s
County Police Department’s Community Services Division at (301) 909-7126 or the
Media Relations Division at (301) 772-4710.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

The Prince George’s County Police Department is turning the gymnasium at police headquarters into a coat closet. On Friday, November 30, members of the community are welcome to stop by and receive a new or gently-used coat free of charge. The PGPD partnered with the One Warm Coat Organization in October to begin collecting coats for those in need in our community. So far, we’ve received more than 500 donations, but we are hoping to exceed our total last year of more than 1500 coats. There is still time to donate. Collections boxes are setup at locations throughout the county including the six PGPD district stations.

Monday, November 26, 2012

The Prince George’s County Police Department is searching for a second suspect in the murder of 31 year-old Sharod Darnell James in Seat Pleasant.

On November 16, 2012, at approximately 11:50 pm, police officers responded to the 5600 block of Martin Luther King Jr.Highway for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, police officers found James, of the 2200 block of Savannah Terrace in Southeast Washington, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

On November 21, 2012, detectives arrested 24 year-old Mahdi Lawson, of the 13000 block of Bishops Bequest Road in Upper Marlboro, in connection with the murder.

Detectives are now searching for a second suspect identified as 23 year-old Joshua Jermaine Benton of the District of Columbia. Benton has a prominent tattoo on his right forearm. It is important to note that Benton has a twin brother who is not connected to this case.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division/Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). You may also text “PGPD plus your tips” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgpolice.org and submit a tip online. Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $25,000 for tips that lead to an arrest and indictment in this case.

The Prince George’s County Police Department’s participation in a statewide drunk driving enforcement operation called Project SOLO—Saving Our Loved Ones—had a strong start in its first week.

On November 21, 23, 24, 2012, police officers focused their enforcement along the University Boulevard corridor, the Route 1 corridor, and along East/West Highway between the hours of 9:00 pm and 3:00 am. On those nights, police officers made 200 traffic stops, issuing more than 200 traffic citations, made 12 DUI arrests, and three criminal and drug-related arrests.

The PGPD will continue this enforcement on known high drinking and driving nights through May 2013. The next scheduled enforcement is set for December 7, 2012.

The Prince George’s County Police Department is searching for the suspects seen in the above surveillance photographs. The photos were taken a short time before the two suspects attacked and robbed a teenage girl in the 2700 block of Boones Lane in District Heights. The incident occurred at 5:30 pm on November 24, 2012.

The preliminary investigation reveals the suspects approached the victim as she left a convenience store at Boones Lane and Marlboro Pike. Both suspects punched the victim, pushed her to the ground and took her shoes and cell phone. The suspects then ran away.

Anyone with additional information on this robbery is asked to call the Prince George's County Police Department's District III Robbery Suppression Team at 301-772-4425. Callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS. You may also text "PGPD plus your crime tip" to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgpolice.org and submit a tip online. Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward for tips that lead to an arrest and indictment in this case.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

They are credited with helping arrest a murder suspect, a fleeing bank robber and an accused rapist. These Prince George's County police officers are among a distinguished group whom Police Chief Mark Magaw will honor at an awards ceremony on Monday, November 26. Chief Magaw will recognize these outstanding police officers as well as citizens who enrich the lives of all in Prince George's County. Among the award recipients is a group whose performance and teamwork in November of 2011 led to the arrest of an armed murder suspect. During an exchange of gunfire, one of the police officers was shot multiple times. He and his unit will be honored.

For its quick response and teamwork in April of 2012, another unit will be recognized for arresting a bank robber. The police officers were able to locate the suspect's vehicle within minutes of the robbery. Fearing his arrest, the suspect ran from his car to a nearby apartment complex. He was ultimately caught without incident.

A third group of police officers will receive recognition for their quick response in helping multiple rape victims in June of 2012. The police officers' diligence and sound tactics led to the suspect’s arrest.These officers and their commanders will be on hand for Monday's ceremony.

The Prince George’s County Police Department is partnering with Our Lady of Sorrow Catholic Church to distribute Thanksgiving Day meals to the community. The meals will be provided at the District I COPS office in Langley Park. The event is now in its 13th year.

Update: The victim is identified as 43 year-old James Thomas Cornell of the 8300 block of Montgomery Run Road in Ellicott City. The investigation is ongoing.The Prince George’s County Police Department is investigating a murder in Laurel.

On November 20, 2012, at approximately 11:45 pm, police officers responded to the 11600 block of South Laurel Drive for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, police officers discovered the victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead on the scene. The preliminary investigation suggests the suspect(s) targeted the location, which was set up as an illegal gambling operation.

Detectives are working to identify the suspect(s) in this case.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411 TIPS (8477), text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone, or go to http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/police/and submit a tip online.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Updated November 21, 2012: Police officers have arrested 24 year-old Lawson Mahdi, of the 13000 block of Bishops Bequest Road in Upper Marlboro, in connection with this murder. Mahdi is charged with second degree murder and related charges. The investigation is ongoing.The Prince George’s County Police Department is
investigating the murder of 31 year-old Sharod Darnell James in Seat Pleasant.

On November 16, 2012, at approximately 11:50 pm, police
officers responded to the 5600 block of Martin Luther King Jr Highway for a
call of a shooting. Upon arrival, police officers discovered James, of
the 2200 block of Savanah Terrace in Southeast Washington, suffering from
gunshot wounds. He was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced
dead.

Detectives are currently working to identify a suspect(s)
and motive in this case.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the
Prince George’s County Police Department’s Criminal Investigation
Division/Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers can remain anonymous by
calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411 TIPS (8477). You may also text “PGPD
plus your tip” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgpolice.org and submit a tip online.
Crime Solvers is
offering a Cash Reward up to $25,000 for tips that lead to an arrest and
indictment in this case.

Every 57 hours a drunk driver kills someone in Maryland. The Prince George’s County Police Department is partnering with Maryland State Police and all law enforcement agencies throughout Maryland to send the message that drunk or impaired driving won’t be tolerated this holiday season. This week, the PGPD kicks off participation in a statewide drunk driving enforcement operation called Project SOLO—Saving Our Loved Ones.

Beginning Wednesday night, November 21, Prince George’s County police officers will target drunk drivers on known high drinking and driving nights. Project SOLO will also be in effect this Friday and Saturday nights. The enforcement hours run from 9:00 pm – 3:00 am. This week, police officers will saturate the area along the University Boulevard corridor and on Route 1 by the University of Maryland. The enforcement will run on designated nights through May 2013.

For more information, please contact Christina Cotterman with the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Media Relations Division at 301-772-4765 or call the Media Relations Division at 301-772-4710.

The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested a suspect for the November 14, 2012, murder of 25 year-old Reginald McNeil. McNeil, of the 8400 block of Indian Head Highway in Fort Washington, was shot and killed in the 3800 block of 37th Street in Mount Rainier.

On November 15, 2012, police officers arrested 27 year-old Ronald Jefferson Short of the 2500 block of High Street in Southeast Washington. Short is charged with first degree murder and is being held on a no bond status.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit at (301) 772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text “PGPD” plus your message to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone, or go tohttp://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/police to submit a tip online.

Friday, November 16, 2012

Every day, Prince George’s County Police officers patrol the
streets, making the county a safer place to live. Their good work often
goes unnoticed. The Prince George’s County Police Department proudly
presents our Officers of the Month for October.

District I Police Officer of the Month

October 2012

Police Officer First Class Kevin Carter

On October 31, Police Officer First Class Kevin Carter
attempted to conduct a traffic stop near 23rd
Avenue and Banning Place in the Chillum area. The driver had earlier
reportedly pointed a handgun at someone. While trying to flee from the police
officer, he hit a parked car. The suspect jumped out of his car and started
running away. Moments later, the suspect turned around in an aggressive
manner and charged at the police officer. Police Officer First Class
Carter deployed his pepper spray after the suspect refused to get on the
ground. Police Officer First Class Carter was able to make the arrest
without further incident. The suspect had a blood alcohol level of .298
and was also high on cocaine. A loaded Ruger .44 Magnum Revolver was
found in the suspect’s car. The suspect was also in possession of cocaine and
marijuana and is a known gang member.

POFC Kevin Carter

District II Police Officer of the Month

October 2012

Police Officer Kelly Cochrane

On October 31, Police Officer Kelly
Cochrane approached a parked 2008
Chevy Impala in the 12200 Block of Sir Lancelot Drive in Glenn Dale. She noticed that the driver was wearing a black
mask and that a strong odor of marijuana was coming from the car. A search of
the vehicle revealed a second mask, two semi-automatic replica BB guns, a metal
grinder and some 17 grams of marijuana packaged in individual small baggies.
Both occupants were charged with possession with intent to distribute.
Thanks to the police officer’s keen sense of observation, she not only
recovered the marijuana, but also potentially prevented further criminal
activity.

PO Kelly Cochrane

District III Police Officer of the Month

October 2012

Police Officer Darryl Jones

On October 28, Police Officer Darryl Jones was dispatched to
a reported robbery at Landover Road and Pennsy Drive in Landover. A
lookout for two suspects, who implied

they had a weapon, was broadcast. Police officers
quickly established a perimeter and began searching the area. Police Officer
Jones continued to canvass the area after other police officers had ended their
search. After some time had passed, Police Officer Jones spotted two
possible suspects in the 6900 block of Forest Terrace. The suspects
ducked behind a car unsure if they had been spotted. Police Officer Jones
tactically approached the suspects and caught them before they could get away.
Both suspects were positively identified by the victim and were also identified
in several other robberies in the area.

PO Darryl Jones

District IV Police Officer of the Month

October 2012

Police Officer First Class Joey Harrison

On October 7, Police Officer First Class Joey Harrison
responded to the 4900 block of Indian Head Highway for the report of a
shooting. The victim told Police Officer First Class Harrison that he had
an earlier confrontation at a gas station at Indian Head Highway and Southern
Avenue in Oxon Hill. The victim said the suspect had followed him and pulled a
gun. They struggled over the gun, the suspect struck the victim in the face
with the handgun and then shot him in the hip. Police Officer First Class
Harrison spotted a suspicious person matching the suspect’s description hiding
behind a dumpster. After a short chase, Police Officer First Class Harrison
caught the suspect and recovered the gun used in the shooting.

POFC Joey Harrison

District V Police Officer of the Month

October 2012

Police Officer David Acosta

On October 7, Police Officer David Acosta responded to Crain
Highway and Missouri Avenue in Brandywine for report of a shooting. Once
on scene, Police Officer Acosta began searching a wooded area.
He spotted the suspect holding a bucket with several large stalks of
marijuana. While placing the suspect into custody, Police Officer Acosta
noticed additional marijuana plants lying on the ground. The police
officer’s actions and good tactical skills lead to the recovery of a 12 gauge
shotgun and several marijuana plants with a value of $12,000.

PO David Acosta

District VI Police Officer of the Month

October 2012

Police Officer First Class Justin Haynes

Corporal David Vastag

On October 22, Police Officer First Class Justin
Haynes and Corporal David Vastag were canvassing the area of Brooklyn Bridge
and Bond Mill Roads in Laurel for a report of the sound of shots. As they
canvassed Howard Duckett Community Park, they approached two people, an
adult and a juvenile. The police officers conducted an investigatory stop
on the pair. During the investigation, the adult admitted he had
marijuana. A small plastic baggie was recovered, containing 7.5 grams of
marijuana. A pat down of the juvenile revealed a glass and brass pipe. Both
suspects were arrested and charged with narcotics violations.